SC pulls up Centre over Tribunals Reforms Act 2021

The Supreme Court bench led by the Chief Justice of India, NV Ramana, sought the central government's response on why the "Tribunals Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021" was passed in the Parliament when it was struck down by the Apex Court.

New Delhi:The Supreme Court bench led by the Chief Justice of India, NV Ramana, sought the central government's response on why the "Tribunals Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021" was passed in the Parliament when it was struck down by the Apex Court.

"We have seen two days back how what was struck down by this Court has again come back. I don't think any debate has taken place in the Parliament. No reason has been given. We have absolutely no problem with the Parliament making laws. The Parliament has the right to make any law but at least we must know what are the reasons for the government to introduce this bill again after the striking down of the ordinance. Nothing is there. I read the newspapers and from the Hon'ble Minister, there is only one word that Court has not struck down the ordinance on constitutionality. It is reported in some newspaper," said CJI NV Ramana.

"This is a serious issue. What are we to understand from this bill and act? Tribunals are to be continued or have to be closed? These are the only two issues that have to be dealt with ultimately," said CJI. Solicitor General of India, Tushar Mehta said that now it has become an act then the Parliament must have considered something and he would need time to respond on the issue.

The Apex Court also slammed the central government for a high number of vacancies in the tribunals across the country despite various orders of the court. SG Tushar Mehta informed the court that the appointment process is ongoing and sought 2-weeks of time to argue the matter. On this argument, the Court said that whenever they ask about the appointments, they are told that it is under process. "Are you going to make appointments in 2 weeks? You are the best person to assure the Court that will you make appointments in the different tribunals that are on the verge of becoming defunct," asked Justice Surya Kant. Meanwhile, the Court has issued notice and gave 10 days to the government to make the appointments.